iPhones present a unique experience when it comes to app organization. Unlike Android devices that utilize an app drawer to manage apps, iPhones display them directly on the home screen. While this makes accessing apps convenient, it can also clutter your screen, especially for those who use a wide range of apps. The App Library, introduced by Apple, provides some relief by allowing for more organization, but many users still prefer keeping most of their apps on the home screen.
However, there are times when you might want to hide certain apps, whether for privacy reasons or simply to keep your screen tidy. Whether it’s a rarely-used app or something sensitive like a banking app, Apple offers simple ways to conceal apps without having to delete them.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to hide apps on iPhones running iOS 18 and earlier versions, as there are slight differences between the two.
How to Hide and Lock Apps in iOS 18
iOS 18 introduces new features that make hiding and locking apps even easier, giving you more control over your privacy.
Step 1: On your home screen, press and hold the app icon you wish to hide or lock.
Step 2: From the pop-up menu, select “Require Face ID” and confirm your action.
Step 3: If the app can be hidden, you’ll see an additional option to “Hide and require Face ID.” Tap to confirm, and the app will disappear from your home screen.
Step 4: To unhide the app, go to the App Library and navigate to the “Hidden” folder.
Step 5: Long-press on the hidden app and choose “Don’t require Face ID.” The app will reappear on your home screen.
How to Hide Apps in iOS 17 or Older Versions
For those using iOS 17 or earlier, hiding apps is still straightforward, but the process is slightly different.
Step 1: Find the app on your home screen.
Step 2: Press and hold the app icon.
Step 3: In the pop-up menu, choose “Remove App.”
Step 4: Select “Remove from Home Screen” to hide the app without uninstalling it.
How to Find a Hidden App
Hidden apps aren’t gone forever; you can easily find them again when needed. Here are two quick ways to access hidden apps.
Method 1: Use Spotlight Search
Step 1: Swipe down from the middle of your home screen (not the top) to bring up Spotlight search.
Step 2: Type the name of the app, and it will appear in the search results.
Method 2: Use the App Library
Step 1: Swipe left until you reach the App Library.
Step 2: Use the search bar at the top, or scroll through the alphabetical list to find the app.
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